Worldpay appoints Ruth Prior as COO, expresses confidence over H2

Payments processor Worldpay announced some executive changes on Thursday and expressed confidence it will deliver a good performance in the second half.

Current chief financial officer Ruth Prior has been appointed to the newly-created role of chief operating officer and will oversee key elements of operational finance, risk and compliance, as well as strategic supplier management. She will also continue to lead the implementation of the company’s new acquiring platform across the business.

Worldpay said managing director Dave Hobday has resigned to take up a role as chief executive of a private equity-owned business. The company has finalised the appointment of his successor, who has significant board level experience at a UK plc, and a strong track record in business transformation and financial services.

It expects to be able to announce this appointment and for him to join Worldpay in the New Year.

Chief executive officer Philip Jansen said: “The new appointments will diversify and strengthen our capabilities, and I would like to congratulate Ruth on her enlarged role. They demonstrate our managed approach towards achieving both evolution and continuity in our leadership team.”

He added: "We have made substantial progress in 2016, and continue to expect to deliver a good performance in the second half of the year, in line with market expectations. We remain confident in our prospects, and our strategy and medium-term guidance remain unchanged."

At 1015 GMT, Worldpay shares were up 1% to 266.30p.